True Roots was founded in 2015 by Summer Lewis and José Luis Zárate, based on 15+ combined years of experience in international and community development, with a strong emphasis on the coffee value chain. We were convinced of the power of small-scale community development initiatives and driven by a desire to help prove and demonstrate their impact to the world.
True Roots’ methodology is one-of-a-kind, the product of extensive experience working in business, nonprofit, rural, and academic contexts in Latin America and beyond.
We firmly believe that in order for a project and organization to be successful and sustainable, participants and members should possess the confidence and skills for project self-management.
As such, the True Roots team steps beyond the traditional consulting role to work closely alongside project participants and stakeholders, making use of their specific knowledge and skills to build capacity and resilience.
Our methodology aligns with and complements the goals of socially responsible businesses and organizations, embodying a commitment to meaningful, long-lasting impact for all stakeholders in an organization’s value chain.
Forging a different path …
Hacia el mismo horizonte
True Roots has the technical skills, specialized knowledge, and relationship-building talent necessary to carry out our work in community and international development – and demonstrate the following values with every unique stakeholder involved in our projects.
Respect
Collaboration
Transparency
Equity
Integrity
True to our roots, we are a proactive, forward-thinking team that is deeply committed to the organizations and communities we work with.